Music Lessons in Fox Valley, IL

Instruments: Guitar

I have experience teaching from the beginner to the collegiate level. I teach technique, songwriting, theory lessons, or any style the student prefers. Each lesson is specifically tailored to a student's individual needs and musical desires. I teach an effective practice routine involving a metronome and egg timer to promote good habits. This serves a dual purpose in measuring both time and technical progress. Further, it gives beginner students the ability to develop good habits early. Read More

Instruments: Violin Music

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Drums

My lessons typically include warm up, stretch, book work and creative playing. My various warm ups include the open closed open technique with rudiments, great hands for a life time by the Tommy Igoe, and the rudimental Ritual by the late great Alan Dawson. The books I work from are rooted in jazz and pop but can be applied to anything in-between, with repetition as the key element. Mindfulness in the musical world (being aware of how your mind and body works best with your instrument) is something all of my students will learn to love and embrace as a tool for all areas of life, not just music performance. Read More

Instruments: Flute Recorder Piccolo

Prior to moving to Chicago, I ran a private flute studio out of my home for 6 years. I have also been on faculty at the Midwestern Music Academy, and was a clinician for the Blue Valley School District. Whilemy love of performinghas been a major motivator for me, my true passion is performing arts advocacy, education, and musical outreach. I have been involvedwith numerous non-profit organizations both in Chicago and Kansas City and have found that my greatest joy comes from sharing my love of music with others through education and outreach. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

The most important part of my job as an instructor is listening - to how the student plays, why they play, and what they hope to accomplish. Each student is different - do you want to play just for fun? Advance in your school band? Audition for college entrance? Prepare for a solo recital? Whatever your goals are, I will provide you with the guidance to fulfill them - the practicing is up to you! Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Cello Viola

My teaching philosophy is that of encouraging and inspiring my students to do their personal best in a creative, positive and enriching learning environment. I teach students of all ages using various teaching materials, focusing on the individual student’s learning style. I enjoy teaching students at various stages in their development whether they are preparing for University auditions, studying for their own enjoyment or preparing to join a local community string ensemble or orchestra. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Music

While I have performed with numerous groups, I found myself falling more in love with teaching than performing. Playing the violin has brought me such joy, offered me so many opportunities, and given me so many friends that I want to share this gift with everyone. I believe that everyone can benefit from learning an instrument and I strive to give the best instruction and form the best environment possible. Read More